Emergency garage door issues can range from broken springs and snapped cables to malfunctioning sensors and misaligned tracks. A trustworthy service door repair provider ensures your day runs smoothly and you know where to get emergency garage door repair in Houston. These reputable, fast and reasonably priced businesses offer quality services and materials to fix garage doors. 

1. Halo Overhead Doors

Halo Overhead Doors is a full-service garage door company that offers an unmatched number of versatile doors for home and business owners. The company was founded in 1991 and has the largest showroom in Houston. 

The business’s team offers garage door installation, maintenance and repair services as well as technical assistance. The company is serious about providing the best service possible, so none of its team members has less than five years of experience. This means that when you pay for a door at Halo Overhead Doors, you pay for unparalleled service. 

The company’s durable garage doors are long-lasting in performance and quality. The brand finds premium doors based on your needs, from carriage and glass to wood and steel. Your preference is Halo Overhead Doors’ priority, so you will receive customized solutions for your home or business. 

The company matches written quotes, has 0% interest financing, and upgrades springs and rollers for free. These competitive features — along with its warranties — make choosing Halo Overhead Doors a smart investment in your garage door’s performance and aesthetic appeal. 

2. Easy Garage Door Repair

Easy Garage Door Repair is another excellent option for emergency door repair in Houston. It offers premium garage door repair, service or maintenance. The skilled technicians are equipped to handle superior repair, installation, and top-quality garage doors and openers. The company serves over 50 neighborhoods, comprising 4,900 clients and over 5,000 successful projects. 

The family-owned business prides itself on providing stress-free service delivery in every project while remaining efficient and professional. You can expect top-tier quality and service at an affordable price because the brand aims to remain competitive while offering quality services. 

The business is open 24/7, so you can rest assured that Easy Garage Door can promptly assist if you ever have door issues. The company’s services include regular maintenance and tuneups, including lubrication checks and safety inspections. 

The business offers fast response times, a comprehensive product and service warranty, certified and experienced technicians who attend every job fully equipped for any issue, and free quotes and estimates so you can plan to fit the service in your budget without any surprises.  

3. Garage Door Doctor 

Garage Door Doctor is a family-owned business that has been serving the Houston community since 1987. The company is fully insured and accredited by the Better Business Bureau to service residential doors. One of Garage Door Doctor’s perks is its versatile range of garage doors and ability to serve residents with any stock part, ensuring optimal safety. 

The business offers services from repair and installation to spring replacement. Garage Door Doctor also commits to providing customer service that satisfies clients with their new or repaired safe, stylish and functional door. 

The company ensures customers receive the best quality products and — when possible — supports the local companies that supply these products. The Garage Door Doctor team knows every client has different preferences, so the brand offers various materials, including steel, wood, composite, aluminum and fiberglass. 

The company prides itself on being family-friendly and available 24/7 for emergency door repairs in Houston. It showcases integrity, excellence, safety, teamwork and remains accountable for any services clients receive. 

4. Servo Garage Door Repair

Servo Garage Door Repair has been operating in Houston for several years and works 24/7 to provide accessible customer service and garage door repair, installation and parts maintenance.  In addition to offering 24-hour service, Servo Garage Door Repair prioritizes safety in its installations to protect the community. 

While the company assists at any time, prevention is better than dealing with an emergency. The brand advises clients to monitor their doors and materials because they degrade over time and require regular maintenance to avoid heavy damage. 

Regular maintenance results in affordable upkeep instead of spending more money on new products and materials if the door breaks. Servo Garage Door Repair’s team of experts has undergone extensive training and has years of experience to assist you. 

The company utilizes top-quality material, tools, machinery, technology and resources when assisting clients. So, whether you are maintaining or rebuilding your garage door, you can rest assured that you will receive quality service with Servo Garage Door Repair. Its core value is security, so clients always feel safe and in good hands

What Makes Each Business Stand Out

Compare standout features across the top four Houston emergency door repair service providers.

Why You Should Hire a Professional for Emergency Garage Door Repair

While homeowners can perform quick fixes like track lubrication, it’s best to call a professional for garage door repair, given the following factors:

Safety: Garage doors are heavy and under a lot of tension from springs and cables. This makes them especially dangerous when mishandled. A repair professional will have the relevant experience and knowledge of safety precautions. 

• • Expertise: These door systems have more parts than meet the eye, and not all garage doors require the same approach. An expert can identify the state of your garage and what methods and tools best suit its needs.

• Appropriate tools: A garage door repair company will have the proper tools, saving you from spending time and money acquiring them. 

• Warranties: These protections give you peace of mind and confidence in the result of your repair. 

• Time savings: Identifying and repairing a garage door is time-consuming for most homeowners. A professional can often complete the job quickly, letting you focus on other things. 

• Cost-effectiveness: DIY repairs initially seem like a smart cost-saving solution. However, they can quickly lead to higher prices than hiring a professional who can get it done right the first time and ensure longer-lasting results. 

Repair Your Door With Houston’s Best Garage Door Professionals 

Finding the right garage door repair service should not be an added stress in an emergency. These reputable businesses are sound choices for people looking for good customer service, quality products and materials, and comprehensive repairs. Evaluate your choices and contact a top emergency garage door service provider.

The post How to Find Emergency Garage Door Repair for Houston Homeowners appeared first on Best of Heights.

As Labor Day weekend approaches, the American Red Cross encourages everyone to make safety a priority while enjoying the unofficial end of summer. Whether you’re gathering for a backyard barbecue, spending time on the water, or heading outdoors for an adventure, a few simple precautions can help ensure a fun and memorable holiday weekend.

Stay Safe at the Grill

Cookouts are a Labor Day tradition, but proper food handling and grilling practices are essential to prevent illness and injuries.

The Red Cross recommends:

• Washing hands, utensils and food preparation surfaces before cooking.
• Keeping uncooked meats, poultry and seafood separate from ready-to-eat foods such as fruits, vegetables, salads and desserts.
• Storing perishable foods in coolers with plenty of ice or freezer packs and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun.
• Bringing hand sanitizer when hand-washing facilities are unavailable.
• Keeping children and pets away from the grill and placing grills in open areas away from homes, decks, trees and other flammable materials. Use long-handled grilling tools to help prevent burns.

Practice Water Safety

Drowning can happen quickly, often in as little as 20 to 60 seconds. Constant supervision is critical whenever people are in or around water.

Safety tips include:

• Designating a dedicated “water watcher” whose sole responsibility is to supervise swimmers.
• Monitoring weather conditions and leaving the water immediately at the first sign of lightning or thunder. Stay indoors and away from water for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap or lightning flash.
• Wearing a life jacket while boating and in situations that exceed your swimming ability.
• Remembering: “Reach or throw, don’t go.” If someone is struggling in the water, reach or throw a flotation device instead of entering the water yourself.
• Swimming only at lifeguard-protected beaches and within designated swimming areas. Follow all instructions from lifeguards and be aware of local conditions.

Be Prepared Before You Hit the Trail

For those planning to explore the outdoors, preparation can help prevent emergencies and ensure a safe trip.

Before heading out:

• Know the skill level of your group and choose a trail that matches your abilities.
• Carry a first aid kit to treat common outdoor injuries such as cuts, bruises, sprains and insect stings.
• Learn lifesaving skills by taking a Red Cross First Aid and CPR course and downloading the Red Cross First Aid app.
• Share your planned route and location with a family member, friend or neighbor.
• Bring plenty of water, nutritious snacks, weather-appropriate clothing and supplies for any pets accompanying you.

Learn More

Whatever your Labor Day plans may include, the American Red Cross offers additional guidance to help you enjoy summer activities safely. Visit the Red Cross Summer Safety resource page for more information: Red Cross Summer Safety.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

The post 15 Simple Ways to Stay Safe and Make the Most of Labor Day Weekend appeared first on Best of Heights.

One of Houston’s signature events in the fabulous Heights neighborhood is our tip of the hat to New Orleans Street partying. Yes, it’s hot. The restaurant and shops have ac. If you’ve not been  its  a great way to experience the Heights.

It began as an art-focused neighborhood stroll to much larger and possibly crowded street party. It provides a great opportunity to explore the side streets and local shops—not just the main stage areas.

For those mainly interested in the social scene, plan to continue the evening at one of the Heights’ bars or after-parties once the street festival ends.

We look forward to you joining us in August 2027.

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In a city as expansive and energetic as Houston, slowing down doesn’t always come naturally. Luckily, a new wave of high-end wellness destinations is making it easier, and far more appealing to slow down. Across Houston, thoughtfully designed spaces are blending science, luxury, and a dose of intention to create experiences that go beyond traditional self-care.
From serene sauna lounges to cutting-edge recovery studios, here are some of the city’s most elevated ways to reset.

Löyly Sauna Lounge

Tucked into Montrose, Löyly Sauna Lounge offers a Scandinavian-inspired escape that feels worlds away from the city’s daily rush. The space is calm, minimal, and intentionally designed to slow you down the moment you step inside.
At the heart of the experience is contrast therapy. This alternates between heat and cold to stimulate circulation and recovery. The infrared sauna delivers a deeper, more gentle warmth than traditional saunas, while cold plunges leave you feeling refreshed and re-energized. It’s equal parts ritual and reset. Be sure to inquire about their monthly access packages.

(713) 533-2653
1210 W Clay St #18, Houston, TX 77019

Sudor Sauna Studio

If you enjoy something modern, with an efficiency-driven approach, Sudor Sauna Studio delivers. Great for busy schedules, this sleek space combines infrared heat, cold therapy, and light-based treatments into streamlined sessions.
It’s a favorite among professionals and fitness enthusiasts alike, offering a way to recharge in under an hour without sacrificing critical results. Think of it as high-performance wellness for everyday life. Be sure to bring bottled water. The heat begins as soon as you arrive.

(832) 728-9554
3515 W Dallas St Suite 400, Houston, TX 77019

Revived Personalized Wellness

For those drawn to the science side of wellness, Revived Personalized Wellness offers a more clinical, customized experience. Services like IV therapy and hormone optimization are tailored to individual needs, creating a highly personalized path to optimal health.
This is also where conversations around peptides are gaining traction. Often described as the building blocks of proteins, peptides are being explored for their potential to support recovery, boost energy, and enhance overall vitality. It’s a glimpse into the future of wellness and offered at Revived Personalized Wellness.

(855) 483-7477
1640 Fountain View Dr Suite B, Houston, TX 77057

Perspire Sauna Studio – The Heights

If privacy is part of your wellness routine, Perspire Sauna Studio offers individual infrared suites designed for a more personal experience. Each session is fully customizable, complete with calming music and ambient lighting that transforms the space into a quiet retreat.
With consistent visits, many turn to infrared therapy here for stress relief, improved circulation, and muscle recovery, making it as beneficial as it is indulgent. With an array of membership options, treating yourself is easy at Perspire Sauna Studio.

(713) 808-1184 | 1111 Shepherd Dr
Ste 500, Houston, TX 77007

Tulum Wellness Spa

Blending spa luxury with holistic healing, Tulum Wellness Spa offers a more integrative approach to self-care. Located in Garden Oaks, this beautiful space focuses on long-term well-being rather than a quick fix.
Treatments are designed to restore balance, both physically and mentally, through a combination of relaxation and therapeutic intention. Here, you can book anything from a facial to a complete wellness program. It’s the kind of place where you leave not just feeling your best, but more centered.

(832) 707-0407
1223 W 34th St Suite A-600, Houston, TX 77018

GameDay Men’s Health Houston

If you are looking for a performance-driven, medically guided approach to wellness, GameDay Men’s Health may be your best option. While best known for hormone optimization and energy-focused treatments, the clinic is also part of a growing movement incorporating peptides into personalized care plans.
Wellness is approached through customization and doctor-provided care. Peptide therapies are often explored for their potential to support muscle recovery, improve energy levels, and promote overall vitality, particularly for those balancing demanding careers, fitness goals, and long-term health. The environment is polished yet approachable, offering a streamlined experience that feels both efficient and elevated.

(713) 234-5125
2301 Commerce St Ste 150, Houston, TX 77002

In the Bayou City, the wellness scene is as diverse as the city itself. Some spaces invite you to slow down and unplug and others focus on optimizing performance or recovery. Many, like Revived, are blending both spectrums. This allows the option to bring together luxury and science in ways that feel both modern and meaningful.
What they all share is a common goal: helping you feel better in a way that fits your life. In a city that rarely stops moving, finding time to reset isn’t just a luxury, it’s essential.

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As the heartbeat of the Heights in Houston, 19th Street boasts unique boutiques, bountiful bites, and its own unique charm. 

“19th Street is more than just a shopping destination; it’s a community where history, culture, and creativity converge,” said Coryne Rich, Secretary of the Houston Heights Merchant’s Association. “Whether you’re seeking unique gifts, delectable eats, or a stroll through history, 19th Street offers an experience that’s authentically Houston.” 

Founded in 1891 as one of Houston’s earliest planned communities, historic 19th Street in the Heights offered early residents a cleaner, higher-elevation alternative to the swampy downtown of the city in its earliest form. Designed to be a “streetcar suburb”, the neighborhood was built to be close to the electric streetcars that helped broaden Houston’s horizons and arrived the same year that 19th Street was founded. Thanks to the streetcars along with some ingenuity, the Heights quickly became a haven for middle-class families, artists, and entrepreneurs.

Prior to electric streetcars, mule-drawn streetcars could be seen on early Houston streets, but the arrival of the electric streetcar helped connect the newly formed Houston Heights neighborhood to other areas such as downtown and the commercial districts. The Houston Heights Street Railway Company, founded by the developers of the Heights, began operating electric trolleys to and from downtown around 1892–1893. This connection was crucial in marketing the Heights as a healthy, elevated, and modern place to live—perfect for families who still needed to get to work in the city.

At its peak, Houston’s streetcar system boasted more than 70 miles of track and gave people freedom to live farther from the dense, industrial core of the city while still staying connected. In the Heights, that convenience helped build a strong, self-sufficient community with its own schools, shops, and character. 19th Street served as the commercial heartbeat of the neighborhood. Early Heights residents ambled down 19th Street to gather, shop, dine, and bank. Thanks to historical preservation efforts, some of the original buildings from the early 1900s still stand today, and these preserved facades and brick-lined sidewalks tell a story of a community that values its roots even as it evolves.

The Heights is known for its fiercely independent spirit, and 19th Street is representative of that essence. Unlike other neighborhoods in the Houston area that are dominated by restaurant chains and big box stores, 19th Street is largely composed of locally owned and unique businesses, like vintage clothing stores, galleries, record stores, and more, that reflect the charming personality of the neighborhood. It’s a place for creativity and individuality and a key part of what makes the Heights such a beloved enclave.

“As part of Texas’ earliest planned community, the Heights was designed with 19th Street as its commercial and social nucleus,” said Rich. “Over the decades, it has witnessed the evolution of Houston, reflecting the city’s growth and diversity. Preserving this history isn’t just about maintaining buildings; it’s about honoring the stories, cultures, and traditions that have shaped our community.”

The street’s walkability, historic architecture, and community-driven events create an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and contemporary, making it a unique destination in Houston. Visitors can enjoy a delightful local adventure by strolling down 19th on any given weekend or weekday.

​SHOP

From fun and funky clothing finds to delightful home goods, shopping on 19th Street is an experience all its own. Be sure to check out these must-see retail shops: 

• Jubilee: A fun and funky boutique offering women’s clothing, fashion accessories, unique home decor, gifts, and more. 
• Big Blue Whale: A festival of fun for both kids and kids at heart, this exciting store features both classic and new toys, puzzles, games, curiosities, and more. 
• Manready Mercantile: For guys that are impossible to shop for, the Manready Mercantile offers taxidermied items, hides, jerky, rustic menswear, and lots of gifts and goods for men. 
• AG Antiques on W. 19th: Shoppers craving some truly vintage charm will love visiting this antique store that sells treasures like vintage clothing, antique jewelry, home decor, and more. 
• Bliss on 19th: Ideal for gifts and unique seasonal items, Bliss on 19th boasts a curated selection of interesting gifts, stylish items, and home accents. 
• Vinal Edge Records: This long-running music store offers new and pre-owned vinyl albums and CDs, plus turntables and speakers.
• Casa Ramirez: This folk art gallery offers items like Mexican dresses, local artwork, books on culture and cooking, and bilingual books for children, greeting cards, home decor, and more.

EAT 

Whether it’s sweet or savory, 19th Street offers an innovative collection of coffee shops, bistros, casual eateries, and sweet treats. Be sure to check out these highlights: 

• Boomtown Coffee: Offers light fare like hand-crafted breakfast tacos, avocado toast, and more, and delectable coffees and teas made with premier ingredients. Monday-Friday 6:30am-7pm; Saturday-Sunday 7am-7pm. 
• Shandy’s Heights: Offers burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more with a farm-fresh focus in a relaxing and unpretentious eatery. Mon-Wed 11:00 am – 10:00 pm, Thu-Sat 11:00 am – 11:00 pm, Sun 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
• Blue Tuba: This European-fusion restaurant offers brunch, lunch, and dinner infused with German, French, Italian, Czech, Balkan, and other flavors, and offers rooftop dining and live entertainment. Lunch: Wednesday – Friday: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm; Brunch: Saturday & Sunday: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm; Dinner: Tuesday – Saturday: 4:30 pm – 10:00 pm; Sunday: 4:30 pm – 9:00 pm. Happy Hour also available at select times. 
• Sweet Bribery: Features artisanal ice cream and handmade desserts paired with specialty libations in the heart of the Houston Heights neighborhood. Sunday — Thursday 1:00 pm – 10:00 pm; Friday & Saturday 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm

PLAY

From festivals to community events and unique stops, 19th Street offers something to entertain on any given weekend or weekday. 

• Heights Cigar Lounge: Patrons can enjoy premium cigars in a lounge that features leather seating, a fireplace, a walk-in humidor, and amenities like Wi-Fi and game tables, catering to both seasoned aficionados and newcomers seeking a laid-back atmosphere. ​
• Heights Theater: A historic 1920s Art Deco venue in Houston’s Heights neighborhood, now hosting live music performances and private events in a restored, state-of-the-art setting.
• First Saturday Arts Market: Houston’s original monthly outdoor art market features creations like paintings, sculptures, photography, jewelry, and many more popular art mediums from local artists. 11-6 pm September – May on the 1st Saturday of each month. 

19th Street also hosts a variety of events throughout the year that celebrate our community spirit. Upcoming highlights include: 

June 12: Craft Brew Stroll

August 2: White Linen Night

August 23: White Balloon Sale

October 23: Boos & Brews

November 29: Small Biz Saturday

December 5: Holiday on 19th Street 

​​For a full listing of events and more information about 19th Street, visit 19thstreetheights.com.

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“There is nothing wrong with not being able to afford clothing,”  said Sam Lopez, Co-Founder of The Houston Clothing Swap. “There is nothing wrong with wearing second-hand items. There is nothing wrong with repurposing old materials to make new clothing out of. That’s the beauty of sustainability. You make it work. You make it yours. It doesn’t look any one particular way.” 

With the mission of building a community that celebrates conscious consumerism and makes the basic need of clothing accessible for all, Sam Lopez, Raquel Sandate, and Diana Cwick created The Houston Clothing Swap. With a relatively simple concept, they organized this unique non-profit to address a somewhat complex problem. 

“What kickstarted the concept of clothing swaps stemmed from a place of need; the need for clothing during times when we could not afford it, the need for change in the ways that over consumption has contributed to landfills, and to make the basic need for clothing accessible FOR ALL,” stated Lopez.

Conscious consumerism encourages buyers to make shopping decisions based on environmental or ethical decisions. The problem with clothing and “fast fashion” is multifaceted. On the social front, some people may not be able to afford clothes that they need for work or school, making it difficult to obtain what they need. Other people might have unwanted items that sit around, taking up space, while there is need in the greater community. From an environmental standpoint, many people choose to donate unwanted items but don’t realize that their discarded clothing items end up in landfills, which contributes to environmental pollution from chemicals being released into the soil and groundwater and taking up valuable space in the landfills. 

“Raquel planted the seeds early on when she began hosting swaps in 2019 on her own. It was from her that so much of the Houston community even became aware that this sort of free exchange could be possible,” said Lopez. “There was a point in her life where she couldn’t afford to buy clothing. At the same time, she noticed how many people were holding onto items they no longer used. That’s when the idea came to Raquel to create a space where people can come together to exchange items at no cost.” 

Diana watched Raquel’s self-generated clothing swaps and Sam watched documentaries that taught her about the practice of donated clothes clogging landfills. What started as a small movement of a more individual nature evolved into something truly special between the three women. 

Sam started small by buying second-hand clothing first and ultimately attending Raquel’s clothing swaps starting in 2022, and hosting smaller clothing swaps in 10 x 10 tents at markets. They knew that a clothing-swap movement could be brought to a  larger audience in Houston. As the project evolved and expanded, word about their movement has spread and the numbers are truly impressive. The small but mighty trio hosted their first clothing swap in April of 2024 and became an official non-profit, The Houston Clothing Swap, in December of 2024. 

“The Houston Clothing Swap has only had two swaps so far, and each one has outgrown the last,” remarked Lopez. “Our first had 200-300 people, our second had 400-500, and we project that our third in April will have 1,000 plus in attendance.”

The process during a clothing swap makes it easy for shoppers to come in and find what they are looking for. Much like shopping at a thrift store, visitors can browse clothing items on tables and racks, organized by size, and pick out what speaks to them. They can even try the items in a fitting room. Best of all, shoppers can take home the items for free if they fit, or return them to the rack if they don’t. The organization supplies a need—clothes—and keeps unwanted items out of landfills. 

A truly resourceful group, the women do everything from filming events, marketing online, organizing volunteers, gathering donations, planning swap events and getting the word out. Sam is the Chief Director of Content and Media as well as the vendor and volunteer coordinator, Raquel is the Chief Financial Officer as well as the event and sponsor coordinator, and Diana is the Chief Operations Manager as well as the charity and partnership outreach coordinator. 

Much of their success is attributed to content and an audience they’ve built on Instagram in addition to their reputation in a community that is as passionate about sustainability as they are. In addition to future clothing swaps and the anticipation of a growing movement, the trio has exciting plans for the future. 

“Our plans are to expand beyond just The Houston Clothing Swap. That’s why we formed our nonprofit, Conscious Consumer Collective,” added Lopez. “The goal is to pour onto the Houston community, and beyond, by filling in the gaps where there are needs. We can’t say too much just yet, but we have plans to add smaller events throughout the year to help out different age brackets with varying needs.” 

The ingenuity of The Houston Clothing Swap aims to solve multiple problems simultaneously, while providing people with beautiful, fashion-forward items that fill a need and allow people to express their personal creativity. 

“Everyone can walk around in gorgeous vintage, repurposed, and secondhand pieces for centuries and never have to put a penny towards fast fashion,” said Lopez. “We are in such a surplus of clothing, shoes, and accessories globally that nobody ever needs to buy new, never needs to go without, and never needs to consume at the expense of the Earth. Once we start becoming conscious consumers, we can all do our part to save the world.” 

Learn more at https://www.instagram.com/thehoustonclothingswap/ or contact via email at thehoustonclothingswap@gmail.com

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Week of July 28, through August 3, 2024
Report prepared August 9, 2024

Week of July 21, through July 27, 2024
Report prepared August 2, 2024

Week of July 21, through July 27, 2024
Report prepared August 2, 2024

Week of July 14, through July 20, 2024
Report prepared July 26, 2024

Week of July 7, through July 13, 2024
Report prepared July 19, 2024

Week of June 30, through July 6, 2024
Report prepared July 12, 2024

Week of June 16, through June 22, 2024
Report prepared June 28, 2024

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I was 19 and attending a Spanish study abroad program in Madrid through the University of Houston, when a stranger approached. I’d been at a restaurant with a large group of friends and acquaintances whining about not being able to call my boyfriend back in Texas, when this young man I hadn’t noticed before leaned toward me. 

“I know where you can make a phone call,” he said in Spanish-accented English. His voice was smooth and warm. I didn’t hesitate before gratefully accepting his offer and following him outside. Moments later, as he was driving us too fast and too far out of the city, I knew I’d made a terrible, terrible mistake. 

When he finally stopped the car, he put a knife to my throat. He spat hideous words in my ear, detailing how he planned to kill and rape me—in that order. What happened next was a blur fueled by my determination not to die. I kicked, slapped, hit, screamed. 

Somehow, I got away. 

Afterward, I blamed myself for being so stupid, for ignoring my instincts, for putting myself in such a situation. I didn’t know his name. I couldn’t identify his car. I thought, what good would it do to call the police? 

Turns out my seemingly strange reaction is common; in the United States, nearly 80 percent of sexual assaults are never reported.

WHY DO VICTIMS OF NONSEXUAL VIOLENT CRIMES USUALLY INVOLVE AUTHORITIES WHILE MOST RAPE SURVIVORS REMAIN SILENT?

I’m grown now, a novelist and mother of a 21-year-old daughter and an 18-year-old son. The fact that my children are close to the age I was when I was attacked has made me hypervigilant of their safety. That they are young adults in Texas has made me hyperaware of attacks on their rights, especially after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. 

I was utterly appalled when I read research in the Journal of the American Medical Association regarding the number of rape-related pregnancies in the 14 U.S. states with total abortion bans. Since those bans took effect, it’s estimated that more than half a million rapes occurred in those states, yielding almost 65,000 pregnancies.      

In Texas alone, the study estimates that roughly 212,000 rapes led to 26,000 pregnancies.

Based on the aforementioned statistic about silence, most of those rapes were never reported. That means, horrifyingly, about 410,785 rapists nationwide got away with their crimes and carried their lives unpunished. Their victims, I’m certain, did not. And I understand why many don’t speak out.

The only person I told about my attack was a friend I’d been with earlier that night. After I’d hitched back to the city, many hours later with a torn shirt, bloodied arms, and a shattered spirit, she said we had to go to the authorities. 

I knew I would never forget the feeling of that knife at my throat, but I refused to tell anyone else. Not the police, not the school, not my mother. Nobody. I just wanted to forget about it. Although I escaped with only minor physical injuries, the psychic wounds have endured more than three decades—in part because I tried to pretend nothing had happened.  

According to researcher Sandra Caron, one-third of college women who experience sexual assault tell no one, not even one friend. By comparison, a 2022 Bureau of Justice Statistics victimization survey estimated that 64 percent of robberies and 81 percent of cases of vehicle theft were reported to police.

Why do victims of nonsexual violent crimes usually involve authorities while most rape survivors remain silent? Caron says most survivors, as I did, blame themselves. Or they feel society will blame them. 

Remember then-20-year-old swimmer Brock Allen Turner who was convicted of rape in 2016 after publicly assaulting a woman on the Stanford University campus? His father objected to the proposed six-year sentence, calling it “a steep price to pay for 20 minutes of action out of his 20 plus years of life.” 

As a parent, I can perhaps understand—but not excuse—a parent saying something so reprehensible in defense of their child. But what about the judge? Aaron Persky sentenced Turner to only six months, saying, “A prison sentence would have a severe impact.” The judge was more concerned about the perpetrator’s future than the survivor’s. 

Such decisions reinforce survivors’ fears about how they will be treated if and when they come forward.

In her testimony, Turner’s victim described the harrowing effects of the attack, and its aftermath. “If you think I was spared, came out unscathed, that today I ride off into the sunset while you suffer the greatest blow, you are mistaken,” she wrote. “Nobody wins.” 

Fear of being held responsible for their rape. Fear of losing control of the situation. Fear of not being believed. Fear of getting in trouble. Fear of being labeled. Fear of being abused again. Fear of losing someone. (Yet another grim statistic: Over 90 percent of juvenile victims know the perpetrator.) To many, involving authorities feels like being assaulted twice.

The #MeToo movement that began in 2017 shifted public discourse, at least for a while, and in a recall election, Judge Persky was removed from the bench.

Organizations such as the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network and the Houston Area Women’s Center support survivors. But there is still a long way to go to enable more victims to break their silence.

Post-Madrid, I thought I’d successfully hidden the truth from myself, but something as traumatic as that doesn’t magically disappear. It’s the kind of story that lives deep inside your bones. 

I turned to athletics to regain a sense of power and safety, specifically competitive bodybuilding and martial arts. Eventually, I began teaching self-defense classes to women and girls, sharing an abbreviated version of my assault. For my students, it’s a useful scaffolding, explaining how violent attacks unfold. For me, it’s made that awful night easier to talk about. Still, until 2021, I hadn’t told anyone the full story.

That year, my 19-year-old daughter was preparing to drive cross-country from her college campus to spend the summer in Texas. I thought about how strong and capable, and yet how vulnerable and exposed, she would be during her trip. I couldn’t stop thinking about the vagaries of violence and victimhood, safety and security, guilt and grief. At that point, she knew some of what had happened to me, but I felt I had to tell her all of it.

Afterward, I decided to deal with the suppressed details of my attack in the most therapeutic way I know: by fictionalizing it. Writing The Young of Other Animals, the book that grew out of this story, helped me let go of the self-blame and shame I’d been carrying. 

I wonder whether that healing would’ve started 30 years ago, if I’d talked about it then. And I wonder if I might’ve prevented my assailant from hurting someone else if I’d told police. I’ll never know.

But I do know now that remaining silent doesn’t solve anything. 

Half a million rapes in 14 states is too many. More than 212,000 rapes in Texas is too many. Any is too many. At the very least, we must try to make it easier and safer for survivors of sexual violence to come forward, seek help, and begin to heal.

The post Why I Stayed Silent: Women Aren’t Talking About Their Sexual Assaults. Why Aren’t We Talking About That? appeared first on Best of Heights.

Planet Fitness, one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers with more members than any other fitness brand, recently awarded Esther A. from Houston, TX with its annual Judgement Free Generation® scholarship, which awards teens for their unwavering commitment to fostering inclusion, acceptance and kindness in their communities. 

Esther A’s winning submission focuses on the critical issue of bullying and the necessary steps to combat this ongoing issue. Her message emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment and empowering peers to stand up against bullying, showcasing her commitment to making a positive change in her community.

“I’m committed to spreading kindness and ending bullying because I believe everyone deserves to feel safe, loved, and appreciated for who they are,” shared Esther A. “I’m calling on you to be a bystander, not an upstander. If you see someone getting mistreated, have the courage to speak up and defend them. Compliment others, not just for their appearances, but their character strengths.”

“Our ongoing partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America is just one of the ways we support younger generations and their dedication to promoting kindness and belonging,” said McCall Gosselin, Planet Fitness’ Chief Corporate Affairs Officer. “As Home of the Judgement Free Zone®, we are proud to continue uplifting teens who are making a positive impact in our world.”

Scholarships were awarded to 50 members of Boys & Girls Clubs across the U.S., in the amount of $5,000 per recipient, with more than half (52 percent) representing first-generation college students.

Planet Fitness, a long-standing partner to Boys & Girls Clubs of America, has awarded $250,000 in scholarships this year. Since 2017, Planet Fitness has awarded more than $1.4 million in scholarships to 280 teens across the country.

“We are thrilled to partner with Planet Fitness to empower these young changemakers who are demonstrating kindness in their communities,” said Chad Hartman, national vice president of corporate partnerships and engagement at Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “This support will not only catalyze their continued impact as they embark on the next chapter but will also inspire a new generation of youth to create positive change.”

Since joining forces in 2016, together with its franchisees, members and partners, Planet Fitness has donated more than $9.5 million to support pro-kindness initiatives. 

 Learn more about Planet Fitness’ efforts to enhance the communities where people live, work and workout through PF Purpose.

About Planet Fitness

Founded in 1992 in Dover, NH, Planet Fitness is one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers in the world by number of members and locations. As of March 31, 2024, Planet Fitness had approximately 19.6 million members and 2,599 stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, Mexico and Australia. The Company’s mission is to enhance people’s lives by providing a high-quality fitness experience in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment, which we call the Judgement Free Zone®. More than 90% of Planet Fitness stores are owned and operated by independent business men and women.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of America

For more than 160 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA.org) has provided a safe place for kids and teens to learn and grow. Clubs offer caring adult mentors, fun and friendship, and high-impact youth development programs on a daily basis during critical non-school hours. Boys & Girls Clubs programming promotes academic success, good character and leadership, and healthy lifestyles. Over 5,400 Clubs serve more than 3 million young people through Club membership and community outreach. Clubs are located in cities, towns, public housing and on Native lands throughout the country, and serve military families in BGCA-affiliated Youth Centers on U.S. military installations worldwide. The national headquarters is located in Atlanta. Learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of America on Facebook and X.

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